Oakton Coogers

The Oakton Cougars earned a new nickname last season—The Cardiac Cougars—and they earned it the hard way. Nearly every game came down to the wire, with Oakton battling into the fourth quarter week after week. Under first-year head coach Brian Slay, they went from 1‑9 in 2023 to just one win away from the playoffs in 2024. It was one of the most impressive turnarounds in the region and a clear sign that Oakton football is headed in the right direction.

“We found out that we had a group of guys that really cared,” Slay said. “They came together, bought into the process, and were committed to building something new.” That culture shift became the foundation of the turnaround. “It was fun to see the community support return and be proud of our team again.”

The Cougars spent the offseason focused on strength training, internal competition, and cultivating leadership on the roster. According to Slay, “This group has worked their tails off in the weight room, and we’ve had a bunch of guys step up into leadership roles.” That work will be pivotal as Oakton tries to break through a loaded Concorde District where nearly every program returns key pieces.

This year’s roster is loaded with playmakers on both sides of the ball. Senior Preston “PJ” Schwartz (6’1, 175) is back after missing most of last season due to injury. He’s considered Oakton’s smoothest, most natural wide receiver and will immediately boost the passing attack. Junior Deylen Jones (6’3, 205) is the team’s best all-around player and a force in the secondary. Coaches believe he’s primed for a Defensive Player of the Year-caliber season.

Sophomore Collin Henriques (6’1, 180), younger brother of senior Ryan Henriques (5’10, 180), brings elite athleticism to both sides of the ball and is expected to have a breakout year. Ryan, Oakton’s Swiss army knife, led the team in touches last season and will once again contribute as a runner, receiver, and defensive back.

Junior quarterback Jack Martin (6’0, 170) has made major strides in understanding defenses this offseason and is ready to distribute the ball to a deep group of weapons. Junior Brayden Vazquez (5’10, 185) brings toughness and physicality to the running game after a standout offseason.

The Cougars also feature rising sophomore Marco Ruiz (5’11, 175), who has developed rapidly and is expected to make his mark in the secondary. Up front, the offensive line is anchored by senior Wesley Lattus (6’5, 285), an ODU commit, and senior Raja “Shammy” Ayub (6’5, 255). Both are multi-year starters who will set the tone for Oakton’s success in the trenches.

The Cougars believe their depth and chemistry give them a real opportunity to surprise. Slay said. “They play for each other, and they’re not afraid of a challenge.”

As for the close-game reputation? Slay is hoping for fewer heart attacks this year—but if it means a playoff run, the Cardiac Cougars will gladly keep everyone on edge.